Escapes, Inspire
Discovering the Timeless Charm of Capri: A Travel Guide
As the sun bathes the rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Capri, the island’s timeless beauty and unparalleled luxury is revealed. Located in the Bay of Naples, Capri has long been a favorite of artists, poets, and discerning travellers. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and sophisticated charm, the island invites you to explore its hidden gems—from luxurious hotels perched on cliffs to secluded beaches and lively beach clubs. Let’s dive in.
Hospitality Excellence: Hotels
Nestled in the heart of Capri, Hotel Villa Brunella offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rocks. This family-run boutique hotel combines intimate charm with modern luxury. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying a leisurely breakfast on your private terrace, surrounded by lush gardens. Villa Brunella is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience that embodies the essence of Capri.
Perched on a quiet hillside, Hotel La Floridiana Capri offers an oasis of tranquility just steps from the bustling Piazzetta. With its elegant rooms and stunning panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, this hotel perfectly blends comfort and style. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a cocktail on the terrace, La Floridiana promises a stay filled with relaxation and luxury.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, Albergo La Minerva is a hidden gem with just 19 rooms, offering a true boutique hotel experience that is both exclusive and welcoming. The hotel's design pays homage to traditional Caprese architecture, with bright, airy spaces and hand-painted tiles. Each room is a sanctuary of calm, with private balconies overlooking the sea or the lush gardens. La Minerva is a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to savor every moment of your stay.
In the quieter town of Anacapri, Hotel Caesar Augustus offers a luxurious retreat with unparalleled views of the Bay of Naples. This cliffside hotel seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern elegance, providing a serene escape from the bustle of Capri. The infinity pool appears to merge with the horizon, creating a seamless connection between the hotel and the azure sea. The hotel's restaurant, La Terrazza di Lucullo, serves exquisite Mediterranean cuisine—more on this later will be unforgettable.
Secluded Paradises: Beaches
Capri's coastline is dotted with secluded beaches that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty. While some are only accessible by boat, others are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the adventurous traveler.
Located on the southern coast of Capri, Spiaggia di Marina Piccola is a small, sheltered bay that offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. The beach is divided into several private beach clubs, but there are also public areas where you can relax and soak up the sun. The iconic Faraglioni rocks provide a dramatic backdrop, making Marina Piccola one of the most picturesque spots on the island.
Step back in time at Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio, where history and nature intertwine. This beach, located on the northern coast of Capri, is known for its Roman ruins and crystal-clear waters. The beach is accessible by boat or a short walk from Marina Grande, and it's a favorite spot for those seeking a quieter, more secluded experience. The beach club offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
Located on the eastern side of the island, Spiaggia Torre Saracena is a secluded beach that offers a tranquil escape from the busier tourist spots. Nestled beneath the dramatic cliffs, this pebble beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun while enjoying the natural beauty of Capri.
Glamorous Hangouts: Beach Clubs
Capri's beach clubs, known as lidos in Italian, are legendary, offering a blend of luxury, relaxation, and fun. These iconic spots are the place to see and be seen, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and top-notch service ensuring you enjoy the quintessential Capri experience.
Perched on the rocks beneath the Faraglioni, La Fontelina is one of Capri's most iconic beach clubs. It's a place where time slows down, and the simple pleasures of life take center stage. The club's restaurant serves up fresh seafood and classic Italian dishes, all with a side of chic ambiance and stunning sea views. Whether you're lounging on a sunbed or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters, La Fontelina offers an experience that is quintessentially Caprese.
Just a stone's throw from La Fontelina, Da Luigi Beach Club offers a more laid-back, rustic vibe. Established in 1936, it was one of the first lidos on the Island of Capri, and its charm has only grown with time. Accessible by a scenic walk from the Piazzetta or by boat, Da Luigi provides sunbeds, umbrellas, and a restaurant serving traditional Caprese cuisine. The atmosphere here is relaxed and unpretentious, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Located near the Blue Grotto in Anacapri, Il Riccio Beach Club is a luxurious escape that combines beachside relaxation with gourmet dining. The club's Michelin-starred restaurant offers a menu of fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes, served in a chic, nautical-inspired setting. The beach club itself is a haven of tranquility, with sunbeds overlooking the azure sea and private cabanas for a more exclusive experience.
Culinary Delights: Restaurants
Capri's culinary scene is a celebration of the island's rich agricultural heritage and bountiful seas. The island's restaurants offer a feast for the senses, with dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients and the bold, sunny flavors of southern Italy.
For a true taste of Capri’s culinary heritage, Da Tonino offers a charming, rustic setting tucked away from the hustle of the town. This hidden gem is renowned for its traditional Caprese dishes, which are elevated with a contemporary twist. The intimate atmosphere and focus on fresh, local ingredients make Da Tonino a must-visit for those looking to experience authentic, yet innovative, island cuisine.
For a more refined dining experience, L'Olivo, Capri’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant, is the epitome of culinary excellence. Located within the luxurious Capri Palace Hotel, this elegant venue presents a sophisticated menu that artfully blends innovation with tradition. Each dish is a masterpiece, making L'Olivo a must-visit for gourmet enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable dining experience on the island.
For a dining experience that is as breathtaking as it is delectable, La Terrazza di Lucullo at Hotel Caesar Augustus offers unparalleled views of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Sorrentine Peninsula. The restaurant provides various seating options, including a multi-leveled terrace perfect for a leisurely lunch or sunset cocktails. However, for an unforgettable dinner ambiance, our founder, Lauren, suggests opting for the romantic, cliff-side indoor portion, where the intimate atmosphere enhances the stunning views. The dishes are a true celebration of Capri’s bounty, with produce harvested directly from the hotel's own Kitchen Garden, ensuring each bite is fresh and flavorful.
The Art of Leisure: Aperitivo
As the sun sets over Capri, the island comes alive with the sound of clinking glasses and laughter. Aperitivo, a pre-dinner ritual that involves enjoying a drink and light snacks, is a cherished tradition in Italy, offering a time to relax and socialize before the evening meal. Whether you prefer a classic Negroni or a refreshing Aperol Spritz, there's no better way to end a day on the island.
Known as the "Piazzetta," Piazza Umberto I is the heart of Capri's social scene. This bustling square is lined with cafes and bars, where locals and visitors alike gather for an aperitivo. The atmosphere is lively and festive, making it the perfect place to soak up the island's vibrant energy.
For a more sophisticated aperitivo experience, head to Capri Rooftop Lounge Bar located on the roof of Hotel Luna, the terrace provides stunning views of Faraglioni. The bar is open from lunch until late, offering tapas and signature cocktails inspired by the flavours and scents of the lush island.
Explore Capri by Sea: Charter a Boat
No trip to Capri is complete without a day spent on the water. Renting a boat allows you to explore the island's hidden coves, swim in secluded bays, and enjoy the island from a unique perspective.
If an afternoon lounging in your swimwear at the beach clubs wasn’t enough for you, consider chartering a boat to discover Capri’s hidden treasures. Whether you're cruising around the iconic Faraglioni or anchoring near the mystical Blue Grotto, spending a day on the water is the quintessential Capri experience. Be sure to pack a charcuterie picnic and a bottle of chilled wine to complete your perfect day at sea.
Beyond the Beaches: Excursions
Capri is more than just beaches and luxury hotels—it's an island rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring ancient ruins to shopping in the island's charming towns, there's no shortage of things to see and do.
Step back in time at Villa Jovis, the ancient Roman palace built by Emperor Tiberius. Perched on the eastern cliffs of Capri, the villa offers panoramic views of the sea and the Amalfi Coast. The site is steeped in history, and wandering through the ruins gives you a sense of what life was like in ancient Rome.
Shopping in Capri is a quintessential part of the island experience, offering a blend of luxury boutiques, artisanal shops, and local markets. In the town of Capri, you'll find high-end designer stores and elegant boutiques lining the narrow streets. Whether you're searching for the latest in Italian fashion, handcrafted leather goods, or Capri's famous handmade sandals, there's something to satisfy every shopper.
In contrast, Anacapri offers a more laid-back, authentic shopping experience. The town is known for its traditional craftsmanship, with shops selling local ceramics, handwoven textiles, and artisanal limoncello. Anacapri's quaint streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll, where you can discover hidden gems and take home a piece of Capri's rich cultural heritage.
Capri is not just a destination; it's an experience that lingers in the memory long after you've left its shores. From the luxurious hotels and secluded beaches to the vibrant social scene and robust history, every moment spent on this island is a celebration of life’s finer pleasures. Whether you're exploring its ancient ruins, indulging in a gourmet meal, or simply soaking up the sun on a secluded beach, Capri invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and immerse yourself in its timeless allure.